Meet the XUK team

Richard Bernstein - Director

What Richard does at
XUK:Richard started working at a local camp when he was at school. At 19, after training as a manager at Marks and Spencer, he wanted to run his own company and make a difference.

Richard believed passionately in kids getting the most out of their childhood and wanted all children to get the opportunities he did when he was young. At this point he decided to start Cross Keys, a camp that children adore because they can focus on their passions in a cosy, friendly and safe environment.

What Richard does in
his spare time:When he is not working, Richard spends as much time as he can with his wife Emma and 2 daughters (Charlotte and Millie). Richard loves his golf and loves playing, especially with his 3 brothers and father whenever
he can!

Favourite activity at XUK:Raft Building

Richard's view:
"I consider myself very lucky. I work with fantastic people to make a real difference to children’s leisure time. When I was a boy I was fortunate enough to play lots of sport and always get involved in drama activities at school. I want all children to get the same opportunities I had, embrace activities and forge new friendships."

Nick Bernstein - Director

What Nick does at
XUK:
Nick studied Japanese and Psychology at Durham University before training to become a chartered accountant. Nick concentrates on managing relationships with schools & parents. Nick looks after the day camps.

What Nick does in his
spare time:When not in the office, Nick loves spending time with his
wife Karen, 3 daughters (Sophie, Kate & Laura) and son - James. Like
Richard, Nick is also completely golf-mad, enjoys playing when he gets the
chance, though spends more hours talking about golf than he does playing
the game.

Nick's view:
"I love the fact that all our hard work culminates in children having great experiences at our camps. We attract youngsters and teens from all round the local area for our day camps, and as far as Australia for XUK, our UK based residential camp.

If I can help be a positive influence on these children at the same time as working with my brother then that is a perfect working environment!"

Annie Spokes - Office Manager

What Annie does at
XUK:
Annie works in the office throughout the year and is mostly involved in much of the administration XUK needs. Annie also helps with marketing, talks to parents, oversees the equipment for the camps and spreads the word about XUK!

What Annie does in her spare time:Annie loves to explore different parts of the UK, dabbles in a bit of cooking and attempts a bit of exercise every now and again!

Favourite activity at XUK:Evening activities – Annie loves that all activity groups come together – from murder mysteries to scavenger hunts! It’s such a great atmosphere!

Rachael Daniel - Marketing & Logistics Manager

What Rachael does at XUK:

Rachael works in our office throughout the year and looks after our marketing, updating our social media websites and writing blogs, keeping you up to date with what is happening in the world of XUK! She also talks to parents online and on the phone about her one of her favourite things in the world... camp!

What Rachaeldoes in her spare time:Rachael loves to travel with her camera to different cities and countries! She really enjoys going for a milkshake and dinner with friends. Rachael loves going on runs and bike rides around London, particularly in the beautiful parks!

Favourite activity at XUK:Raft Building - "I really enjoy helping our campers to build their rafts. It's great to see how they work as a team and improve their skills over time. Raft Building is great fun, even if you do end up in the lake from time to time!"

Peter Northcroft - Regulation & Staffing Manager

What Peter does at XUK:

Peter has worked on and off at our camps for 18 years! He has taught Classics for 15 years and currently oversees the regulation and staffing at XUK. Amongst other things, Peter helps to develop our policies and procedures and organise the recruitment and training of our staff.

What Peter does in his spare time:

Peter enjoys running short and walking long distances, refereeing rugby matches (now his playing days are a distant memory), off-piste skiing, challenges for charity and naturally spending time with his wonderful family.

Favourite activity at XUK:

Talent shows – A time where children and staff can be whoever they want to be. Peter has a special act (called Boris) at the talent show so do ask him about it, if you dare!